Since the launch of the first Pokémon games, Pokémon Red and Blue, the choice of a starter Pokémon has always been a significant decision for players. These Pokémon are the first companions of every Pokémon Trainer and play a crucial role in the early stages of the game. In Pokémon Black and White, released in 2010 for the Nintendo DS, the tradition continues with the introduction of three new starter Pokémon from the Unova region: Snivy, Tepig, and Oshawott. Each of these starters comes with its unique set of strengths, weaknesses, and evolutionary lines, making the choice both exciting and strategic.
Snivy: The Grass-Type Starter
Characteristics and Personality
Snivy, the Grass Snake Pokémon, is the Grass-type starter in Pokémon Black and White. With its sleek, serpentine appearance and regal demeanor, Snivy exudes an air of sophistication. It’s a Pokémon known for its speed and agility, both in battle and in the wild. Snivy’s design is inspired by various reptiles, particularly snakes and lizards, and it carries a dignified expression that reflects its cool and calculated nature.
Evolutionary Line: From Snivy to Serperior
Snivy evolves into Servine at level 17 and then into Serperior at level 36. As it evolves, Snivy’s design becomes more streamlined and elegant, emphasizing its speed and grace. Serperior, the final evolution, is a majestic serpent with a commanding presence, embodying the regal qualities hinted at in its earlier forms. Serperior excels in battles that require strategy and patience, relying on its high speed and decent defenses to outmaneuver opponents.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Snivy’s evolutionary line is known for its high Speed and Defense stats. These attributes allow it to strike first and withstand physical attacks better than many other Pokémon. However, its Attack and Special Attack stats are relatively modest, making it less effective in all-out offensive strategies. Grass-type Pokémon are also weak against common types like Fire, Flying, Bug, and Ice, which can pose challenges in the early game. However, with moves like Leaf Blade and Coil, Serperior can become a formidable opponent in the right hands.
Tepig: The Fire-Type Starter
Characteristics and Personality
Tepig, the Fire Pig Pokémon, is the Fire-type starter in Pokémon Black and White. Tepig is an adorable, stout piglet with a playful and energetic personality. Its design is based on piglets, with a distinctive fiery tail that hints at its elemental type. Tepig is known for its courage and determination, often charging headfirst into battle without hesitation. This boldness makes Tepig an endearing choice for many players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle.
Evolutionary Line: From Tepig to Emboar
Tepig evolves into Pignite at level 17 and then into Emboar at level 36. As it evolves, Tepig grows larger and more imposing, with Pignite taking on a more muscular and intimidating form. Emboar, the final evolution, is a massive, bipedal boar with flames erupting from its neck and arms, embodying the brute force and fiery passion of its type. Emboar is a Fire/Fighting-type Pokémon, making it the third Fire-type starter in the series to gain a Fighting subtype upon final evolution.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Tepig and its evolutions are known for their high Attack and HP stats, making them excellent choices for players who prefer to overpower their opponents with raw strength. Emboar, in particular, has access to powerful moves like Flare Blitz and Hammer Arm, which can devastate opponents in battle. However, the Fire/Fighting typing also brings a vulnerability to Psychic, Flying, Water, and Ground types, requiring players to be cautious in certain matchups. Despite these weaknesses, Emboar’s offensive capabilities make it a popular choice for those who enjoy direct, forceful battles.
Oshawott: The Water-Type Starter
Characteristics and Personality
Oshawott, the Sea Otter Pokémon, is the Water-type starter in Pokémon Black and White. Oshawott is a cute, otter-like creature with a charming and somewhat clumsy demeanor. Its design is inspired by sea otters and samurai, with a scallop shell on its chest that it uses as a weapon in battle. Oshawott is known for its playful nature but also has a strong sense of justice, making it a well-rounded and endearing choice for players.
Evolutionary Line: From Oshawott to Samurott
Oshawott evolves into Dewott at level 17 and then into Samurott at level 36. Dewott takes on a more serious and disciplined appearance, with a clear samurai-inspired design. Samurott, the final evolution, is a majestic, quadrupedal sea lion with a full suit of armor-like scales, including a helmet-like shell on its head. Samurott’s design emphasizes its warrior spirit and its role as a powerful Water-type battler. Unlike many other Water-type starters, Samurott retains a pure Water typing throughout its evolutionary line.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Oshawott and its evolutions are known for their balanced stats, with Samurott having solid Attack and Special Attack stats, allowing it to function effectively as both a physical and special attacker. Moves like Razor Shell and Hydro Pump give Samurott the versatility to handle a variety of opponents. However, being a Water-type Pokémon, Samurott is vulnerable to Electric and Grass-type moves. Despite this, its versatility and well-rounded stats make Oshawott a reliable choice for players who value adaptability in battle.
Choosing the Right Starter: A Strategic Decision
Choosing a starter Pokémon in Pokémon Black and White is more than just a matter of preference; it’s a strategic decision that can influence the course of your adventure. Each starter offers a different gameplay experience, and understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and evolutionary potential is crucial to making an informed choice.
Considering Type Advantages
One of the most important factors in choosing a starter is considering the type advantages they will have against the various Gym Leaders and Elite Four members in the game. For example, Snivy’s Grass typing gives it an edge in battles against the early-game Water and Ground-type Pokémon but makes it vulnerable to the Bug and Flying-type Pokémon commonly encountered later. Tepig’s Fire typing is advantageous against the first Gym’s Normal-type Pokémon and the fourth Gym’s Bug-type Pokémon, but its eventual Fire/Fighting typing can make it vulnerable to Psychic and Flying types. Oshawott’s Water typing is versatile and effective against a wide range of opponents, especially in the early game.
Balancing Your Team
Another important consideration is how your chosen starter will fit into the rest of your team. While starters are powerful and versatile, it’s important to build a balanced team that can cover the weaknesses of your starter. For example, if you choose Tepig, you might want to add a Flying-type Pokémon to counter its weakness to Fighting-types, or an Electric-type Pokémon if you choose Oshawott to help with Flying-types.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Adventure with Your Chosen Starter
In Pokémon Black and White, the choice of starter Pokémon is a significant one, setting the tone for your adventure through the Unova region. Whether you choose the speedy and strategic Snivy, the powerful and bold Tepig, or the versatile and balanced Oshawott, each starter offers a unique experience that can shape your journey. Embrace the strengths and challenges that come with your chosen companion, and remember that the true joy of Pokémon lies in the bonds you form with your team as you explore the world, battle rivals, and strive to become the Champion.
